Evaluating mental workload: A taxonomic approach to evaluation tools based on ISO 10075

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Ergonomics
• Human Factors Engineering
• Manufacturing Technology

Background:

• Technological advancements in manufacturing increase operator mental workload, posing challenges for cognitive ergonomics.
• A lack of consensus on defining mental workload hinders human-centered management strategies.
• Existing assessment tools for mental workload lack comprehensive guidance for selection and interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a holistic definition and taxonomic framework for mental workload, inspired by ISO 10075.
• To develop a taxonomy of mental workload assessment tools, detailing their principles, strengths, and weaknesses.
• To clarify the correlation between assessment metrics and mental workload fluctuations for improved data interpretation.

Main Methods:

• Literature analysis to define mental workload constructs and their relationships.
• Development of a taxonomy of mental workload assessment tools through extensive literature review.
• Investigation of correlations between assessment metrics and mental workload effects.

Main Results:

• A novel taxonomic framework for mental workload, distinguishing causes and consequences.
• A comprehensive taxonomy of assessment tools, guiding selection based on context.
• Clarification of the nature of correlations between tool metrics and workload fluctuations.

Conclusions:

• The proposed definition and framework enhance the understanding of mental workload.
• The tool taxonomy serves as a pragmatic guide for practitioners in manufacturing.
• Improved interpretation of mental workload data facilitates better management and human-centered design.